Literature from Traditions Other than Tibetan also Useful to Six Yogas of Naropa Practitioners

Note 1: All references included here were available before 2008. Literature appeared only after 2008 is not included here. Note 2: This is a work in progress. If you would like to contribute with editing or new annotated bibliography entries (from publications appeared before or after 2008 and also unpublished manuscripts), you are welcome to do so by leaving a message for Manu here .

Describes eight powerful chi kung exercises synthesized from forty-nine traditional postures, which benefit fasciae and bone structure, a few tendons, and develop the most vital energy routes, strengthening the organs by “packing” chi energy in the fascia around them, creating a natural “iron shirt” in one’s body. Step-by-step and in great detail, one is lead from the preparatory stances to the full performance of these exercises with the aid of numerous drawings. An additional chapter on breath alignment by Terry Gors and a chapter on body construction and chiropractics are very useful, as well as the long introduction, extremely detailed initial preparation instructions, and a suggestion of a daily routine. For a commented note of interest to Six Yoga practitioners, click here

It provides a concise and clear explanation and analysis of the so-called subtle body, using as a frame of reference Hinduism, Buddhism, and Taoism. It presents an original and interesting formulation of models, formulas, and exercises that may work in developing a subtle body. It offers an interesting, although a bit superficial comparison among tantric/kundalini yoga systems in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Taoism. Some interesting and original data obtained from secret oral teachings is also presented. Literature review is very thin. For commented notes of interest to Six Yoga practitioners click here

This is an excellent commentary from both scientific and spiritual perspectives of the classic hatha yoga treatise, the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, by yogi Swatmarama. It is divided into four parts: “asana”; “shatkarma and pranayama”; “mudra and bandha”; “and “samadhi.” Particularly interesting is its tantric and alchemical approach. For a commented note of interest to Six Yoga practitioners, click here